Caryn Leigh Mitchell

**In Loving Memory of Caryn Leigh Mitchell**

Caryn Leigh Mitchell, age 66, left this world on December 14, 2025, at Coeur d’Alene Health of Cascadia, after a sudden bout with acute respiratory failure. Her bright spirit and unwavering love will forever be cherished by all who had the honor of knowing her.

Born on June 5, 1959, in Escondido, California, Caryn was the eldest of three children to Eugene Arnold Adkins and Helen Jean Brittian. From an early age, she discovered her passions, delighting in clogging with her mother and nurturing her love for animals as she watched her father fulfill his calling as a veterinarian.

Caryn attended San Pasqual High School, where she earned her diploma, later pursued further education at a local community college. A significant chapter of her life began with her travels alongside Up With People, where she shared her talent and spirit, spreading joy and kindness worldwide.

On September 25, 1993, she married the love of her life, Terry Mitchell, in Park City, Utah. Together, they embarked on countless adventures, including supporting the US Ski Team before building their home and family in Littleton, Colorado. Caryn was a devoted mother to their beloved children, Cailin and Trevor, and their family shared marvelous memories in a vibrant community. In 2023, they retired and settled in Post Falls, Idaho, continuing to make unforgettable memories together.

Caryn’s career was filled with diverse and meaningful experiences, including caring for animals at the Wild Animal Park in San Diego, working in fashion with Ocean Pacific, and contributing to the US Ski Team through marketing and fundraising efforts. She also cherished her role as a stay-at-home mom, deeply involved in her children’s lives and their endeavors. Those who worked alongside her were inspired by her kind heart, infectious energy, and radiant smile.

Beyond her work, Caryn embraced life with enthusiasm. She loved crafting, scrapbooking, and photography—always seeking opportunities to add a little sparkle wherever she could. Her travels brought her joy, creating lasting memories, whether it was an Alaskan cruise, adventures across Europe, attending concerts, or enjoying the simple pleasures of life with her family.

Caryn is survived by her devoted husband, Terry, and their two children: Cailin, her husband Dillon White, and their grandchild Easton, residing in Olympia, Washington; and Trevor, living in Post Falls, Idaho. She is also survived by her brothers, Christopher and Colin Adkins, as well as her extended family, including in-laws Suzy Adkins, Dennis and Mary Mitchell, Marilyn and Dave Newbrough, and eight treasured nieces and nephews.

She reunites in peace with her father, Eugene, her mother, Helen, and her beloved in-laws, Robert and Eldora.

A celebration of Caryn’s vibrant life will take place on March 7, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Bell Tower Funeral Home. In honoring her wishes, the family encourages all to wear bright and cheerful colors or something that sparkles, reflecting Caryn's joyful spirit.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), an organization dear to Caryn’s heart.

Caryn will be deeply missed, but her light continues to shine through the lives she touched. May we all hold on to the joy and sparkle she brought into this world, keeping her memory alive in our hearts forever.